The Colt CT473s tagbone hawkbill is a reasonably priced wel-made knife that looks great but is fully functional.  It was desinegned to be used and'or collected.  The 440 Stainless steel blade is extremely sharp and is quite capable of cutting natural and synthetic lines. Unfortunately the blade does not lock and requires both hands to deploy.  While the knife lacks a bail it does have a lanyard hole.

What it lacks in functionality it makes up for with looks. It is flat enough to slip in a back pocket comfortably and would do well on calm seas for routine chores. It is a nice change of pace for the typical stainless steel sided marlinspike knives out there and if you like hawkbill blades  you will be pleased with this one.

I have  other hawkbills made by Colt and Rough Rider.  All are of similar quality. The fit and finish is terrific. The blade is tight and spring does a good job holding it in place despite not being a locking blade.  I would rate the quality as good as what you find in older Camillus and present day Case knives.  Indeed, the 440 Stainless steel probaby is a better  blade steel then that used in the current production Case knives.

If you:

then the Colt Hawkbill could be a knife for you.

 

 


Pattern: CT473
lManufacturer: Colt
Country: China
Closed Length: 4 inches
Blade: Hawkbill      
Blade: 440 Stainless
Handle: stag-bone
Shield:  Colt Badge
Pins: brass
Liner: BrassBail: Stainless, locking
Bolsters: Nickel-silver, pinched, engrraved